GCash, the Philippines’ leading e-wallet, is making this holiday season even merrier and truly unforgettable with its latest giveaway. From December 12 to 15, everyone has a chance to win up to P1,200 instant GCash credits when you scan the Merry GCash Billboard from 6am to 9am and 6pm-12mn every night! 

Just look for billboards with the GCash QR code along any of these key locations: EDSA Orense, C5 Bagong Ilog, EDSA Guadalupe Bridge, and EDSA GA Tower in Mandaluyong. 

But that’s not all, because the Merry GCash Billboard isn’t just lighting up Metro Manila – it’s also spreading cheer all the way to Visayas and Mindanao, with billboards along Robinsons Cebu, Gaisano Talisay, Gaisano Grand City Mall in Davao and the Davao LED Billboard, and CM Recto cor. Capistrano road in Cagayan de Oro. 

Stay on the lookout and get ready to scan as GCash will be awarding up to P900,000 to eligible users who scan the Merry GCash Billboard everyday from December 12 to December 15. Those who scan the giant QR code will automatically discover their instant cashback reward, ranging from either P12, P120, or P1,200. Each user is qualified to win 1 cashback prize per day. 

Join the 12 Days of Merry GCash Giveaway for a Shot at Winning 1M 

The merry GCash giveaways don’t end there as GCash is also giving away even bigger prizes daily through the 12 Days of Merry GCash giveaway. 

Everyday until December 15, up to 15 winners nationwide per day will be awarded tons of exciting prizes such as GCash credits, gadgets, gaming consoles, and even a brand new motorcycle.

A grand prize of P1M will be awarded to one lucky user on December 15, so keep using GCash to increase your chances of winning! 

Keep the Merry Spirit Going Until December 31: More Deals and Promos Await

The countdown to Christmas continues with more daily deals and surprises from your favorite retail shops, online stores, and restaurants. Don’t miss out on these exclusive deals and more from December 16 to 31 when you use GCash and unlock the joy this holiday season at these merchants: 

This Merry GCash season, Lahat Ay Merry with more prizes, more deals, and more opportunities to win! Download the GCash App and be part of the biggest holiday celebration of the year!

OPPO’s Zero-Power Tag was announced to have landed on TIME’s list of Best Inventions for 2023 in the Experimental category, putting OPPO among the likes of Apple, Samsung, and Sony with a highly prestigious international accolade for invention. 

Every year, TIME recognizes products, software, and services that are solving compelling

problems in creative ways. The result is a list of 200 groundbreaking inventions changing how we live, work, play, and think about what’s possible. In the Experimental category, TIME’s recognition of the OPPO Zero-Power Tag adds to OPPO’s international reputation for technical expertise and novel thinking, and highlights a new approach to a sustainable world where IoT devices won’t generate polluting batteries. 

“We are honored to be included in TIME’s Best Inventions of 2023 list for the OPPO Zero-Power Tag in recognition of our achievements in innovation and sustainability, ” said Elvis Zhou, OPPO Overseas CMO. “As the shift to B5G/6G accelerates, there’s a pressing challenge to expand IoT connectivity without exacerbating our world’s e-waste problem. Born from OPPO’s vision to blend convenience and environmental responsibility, OPPO Zero-Power Tag is an eco-friendly IoT device that communicates with phones using ambient energy instead of a battery. With object tracking, environmental monitoring and other smart features, we are very excited about the possibilities it will unlock in the IoT space. Moving forward, OPPO will continue to make contributions to sustainability and develop innovative initiatives that positively impact the environment.”

At MWC 2023, OPPO unveiled the company’s first battery-free IoT prototype device — OPPO Zero-Power Tag — powered by Zero-power Communication technology. Leveraging key technologies such as RF power harvesting, backscattering, and low-power computing, the Tag is able to harvest energy directly from Bluetooth, WiFi, and cellphone signals, resulting in surprising advantages such as smaller size, better durability, greater signal distance, and lower cost. 

OPPO is now in the process of refining the device’s design, technology, and industry standards while introducing more features, such as health monitoring, to expand the device’s application to more fields. The company believes that OPPO Zero-Power Tag could one day prevent millions of batteries from going to landfills while making life both smarter and easier for consumers and businesses alike.

Sustainability has long been a central component of OPPO’s business operation and product design. In February 2023, OPPO released the OPPO Climate Action Report with support from global consultancy Deloitte. In the report, OPPO pledges for the first time to achieve carbon neutrality across its global operations by 2050, and outlines five key areas in achieving this goal: low-carbon manufacturing, reducing the carbon footprint of products, investing in options that generate less carbon, utilizing digital technology to manage carbon emissions, and collaborating on industry standards to address climate change. 

This year, OPPO Battery Health Engine received the 2023 SEAL Business Sustainability Award, and thanks to its innovations, OPPO was also named one of the 10 Most Innovative Asia-Pacific Companies in 2023 by influential business media Fast Company. In the 2023 OPPO Inspiration Challenge, OPPO added a new category, “Inspiration for the Planet,” to recognize innovations for sustainability and attract more than 280 proposals from worldwide startups, covering from biomimetic materials to sustainable and safe energy storage. 

Aspiring for a greener future for all, OPPO will continue to prioritize sustainability in its operations to achieve its carbon neutrality goal, and strive to deliver more environmentally friendly technologies and products through constant innovations.

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines (SMEP) and Filipino singer-songwriter Benj Pangilinan have recently linked up with Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP), an international hunger relief organization that distributes food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable, to support communities in Manila that are impacted by food insecurity and malnutrition.

This initiative is part of Sony Music Group’s global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company upholds its commitment in collaborating with partner organizations through a series of in-person events and charitable activities.

For this particular project, the international record label has collaborated with Rise Against Hunger Philippines in enacting programs that are design to uplift the lives of many people through food aid and entertainment. In a collective statement, RAHP was all praises to Sony Music Philippines and Benj for spreading the holiday joy with the children this season of giving. “Their dedication to give back not only makes this holiday season merrier for the kids, but also makes our mission to achieve food security all the more possible.”

The fast-rising recording star has recently joined the SMEP team through a day of volunteering and performances at the Better World Tondo community center, which functions as a food bank and feeding center. This is where RAHP holds food drives, and the AHA Learning Center manages an after-class studying program for the disadvantaged kids.

Aside from providing relief and assistance to the beneficiaries, Benj performed two songs, including his current single, “Dance Like You.”

“Giving back has always been something I’ve loved doing,” the Sony Music talent said. “This opportunity was a wonderful experience for me. Sometimes, when you bless others, you realize later how much you’ve gained and learned from the experience. I’m also grateful to Sony and my management team from Genesis for sharing my vision when it comes to giving back to the community.”

Donning a hairnet, gloves, and a Rise Against Hunger PH apron, the young and promising artist engaged with the kids through fun games and activities and helped in the distribution of food.

In a random act of kindness, the multi-talented newcomer also talked to one of the ice cream cart vendors outside and bought his whole stock for the day. He distributed ice cream to the kids and moms who were present during the feeding program activity.

Benj shares, “We were about to leave, and I just saw the guy selling, so I just thought to help out. I didn’t expect that a small act like that would have such a major impact on them. I’m always happy to help.”

Season of Giving, a global initiative of Sony Music Group, runs throughout the holiday season in collaboration with charity partners across Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Continental Europe, Latin America, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

In addition to Benj Pangilinan, other notable artists who have volunteered with partner organizations and Sony Music Entertainment in the past two years include Shoti, NOBITA, and Hazel Faith.

This campaign also represents the company’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to forge partnerships and support communities that need it most, which are anchored in its culture of making a difference and contributing to social development through music.

“At Sony Music Philippines, we believe in using our platform to not only entertain but also to uplift and empower communities,” Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment, explains in a press statement. “We are committed to continuing our Season of Giving initiatives and partnering with organizations like Rise Against Hunger Philippines to create a positive impact in our society.”

Pineda adds, “Together with artists like Benj Pangilinan, we look forward to more opportunities to give back and make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most. We are immensely proud of their dedication and grateful to have such compassionate individuals as part of our Sony Music family.”

The Jollibee Group recently signed a memorandum of agreement with the city government of Muntinlupa, led by Mayor Ruffy Biazon, to provide temporary employment to qualified senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs). 

Under the said partnership, 32 qualified senior citizens and PWDs will be given an opportunity to work in the select branches of Jollibee, Greenwich, and Burger King in Muntinlupa City. 

“More than just signing a mere document, we have opened up opportunities for people who are in need,” shared Hon. Ruffy Biazon, Muntinlupa City Mayor. “What we have actually done is break through some barriers for our fellow Muntinlupeños particularly to PWDs and seniors.”

“We are happy to partner with the Muntinlupa City government to cater to the needs of senior citizens and PWDs who aspire to work and remain active contributors to society,” shared Ruth Angeles, Jollibee Group Vice President and Head, Global Organization, Leadership and Culture and Head for Philippines HR. “Through our Inclusive Employment Program, we hope to forge more partnerships with local government units and open more employment opportunities for elderly and differently-abled persons across NCR and the country.”

The city’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO) will assist the Jollibee Group in the hiring process. Muntinlupa PESO will screen applicants before endorsing qualified candidates to the company. Once selected, successful candidates will be tasked with customer relations staff duties such as ushering customers and helping with table services.

Alongside Muntinlupa, Jollibee Group also partnered with the LGUs of Manila and Antipolo this year to implement its inclusive employment program.

Interested applicants can get more information on this employment program from the Muntinlupa Persons with Disability Affairs Office and the Office of Senior Citizen’s Affairs.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has observed a surge in respiratory illnesses among children in northern China since mid-October 2023. Chinese authorities attribute this increase to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the onset of the cold season, leading to the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Mycoplasma pneumonia and RSV are known to affect children more than adults.

In our quest to ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones, we must find proactive approaches to cleanliness both inside and outside our homes. Traditional cleaning methods may not be the most practical solution anymore – damp rags, walis, and feather dusters just won’t cut it (sometimes they can even bring in invisible invaders such as viruses, allergens, and bacteria inside the home). The CDC recommends a few solutions to lower the likelihood of transmission:

• Increasing airflow by using portable high-efficiency particulate air filtration systems (i.e. Air Purifiers

• Using natural ventilation when possible

• Using ultraviolet (UV-C) germicidal irradiation as a supplement to help inactivate the virus

The CDC’s recommendation for ultraviolet (UV-C) germicidal irradiation refers to ASHRAE’s (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) position on airborne infectious diseases. As stated in their position statement, “ASHRAE will continue to support research that advances the state of knowledge in the specific techniques that control airborne infectious disease transmission through HVAC systems, including ventilation rates, airflow regimes, filtration, and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI).”

In fact, trusted brands have been relying on this technology. Germ-protection innovators such as UV Care have been employing this into different devices to help eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces to help us be more proactive in keeping ourselves and loved ones protected. 

Find out trusted germ protection devices and other science-proven must-knows to get away from the flu and other viruses this season: 

1. Update your vaccines

If you haven’t yet, update your vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual shot for everyone aged 6 months and older. It lowers your chance of getting the flu, and having complications from the flu. 

Most Philippine hospitals and clinics offer the anti-flu vaccine, but if you prefer not to risk exposure in the waiting room, home vaccination is approved by the DOH in the Philippines. You can also get it with your COVID-19 booster, but make sure to consult your doctor first. 

2. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, laptops, cellphones, light switches, and countertops. 

“UV-C sterilization has gained recognition as a powerful tool in surface disinfection. It not only offers a quick and chemical-free approach but is also effective in eliminating deadly and superbugs, providing an added layer of protection.”

But take note not all UV devices are the same! According to experts at UV Care, when choosing a UV sterilizer, choose only genuine UV-C devices as these are the ones most effective for germ protection while UV-A is most effective for skin aging, and UV-B for burning. 

We recommend the UV Care Pocket Sterilizer, your best investment for protection on the go. Handy and lightweight, this sterilizer uses UV-C germicidal technology which means it can kill up to 99.99% of surface pathogens. Carry it with you on car rides, commutes, and when handling your mobile phones, tablets, laptops, remotes, keys, and the like to avoid transferring bacteria from one surface to the other – especially useful for a quick swipe over kid’s toys and devices. 

3. Wear a mask outdoors

Honestly, this should be number one. We all know its benefits already, it protects our sensitivities from viruses, smog, vog, pollution, and the like. People who are not ill and choose to wear a mask can get the best protection by wearing one every time they are in public and at home when around others, according to the CDC. 

4. Keep indoor air clean

Combat the flu with modern solutions – keep your indoor air clean with an air purifier at home. 

Air purifiers usually come with a lot of skepticism because of the complex technology behind how they operate. Although 100% proven by experts, some models in the market can be a total bust since not all air purifiers are the same; so make sure to get a FDA-approved air purifier only from trusted brands.  

Given the multitude of brands available, it is essential to choose a device that has garnered trust and proven effectiveness. This ensures that the product not only works but also delivers immediate and tangible benefits.

We recommend the UV Care Air Purifiers as they are lab-tested and proven effective by multiple independent testing laboratories. “UV Care has achieved Class II Medical Device classification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its air cleaning products, affirming their safety and effectiveness.”

Adding a UV Care air purifier can eliminate episodes of asthma and allergic rhinitis as it gets rid of these triggers in the air. It also has been tested to instantly kill SARS-CoV-2 & viruses and eliminates 99.9% of airborne pathogens, odors and molds at home, in the office.  You can also travel safely with the portable UV Care Pure Air Portable Air Purifier. 

Experts from UV Care have led innovations in germ-protection technology, and they emphasize on studying the product and make sure the air purifier comes with Highest Medical Grade HEPA filters combined with Activated Carbon filters and UV-C for disinfection providing the total air care protection. You can check out how these filtration systems help protect your home on the UV Care website.

5. Sterilize home surfaces 

According to the International WELL Building Institute, keeping surfaces germ-free is crucial. Surfaces can be made antimicrobial with UV-C light. For high-touch spots like countertops and handles, they should either be made germ-resistant or regularly cleaned with a UV-C device, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.

UV Care’s Room sterilizers are designed to prevent the spread of the virus or ‘hawa-hawa,’ ensuring faster recovery and preventing further contamination. Using Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light, these sterilizers target and eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces, reaching hard-to-reach crevices and ceilings. Perfect for just about any personal and commercial space such as schools, offices, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, salons, movie theaters, hotels, and restrooms, among others.

6. Stay on top of your diet 

Eating a diet rich in nutrients can help your body fight against illnesses. Even if you do not feel sick, it is important to stay on top of your diet and prepare whole meals for children in the family – choose green rich in vitamins A, C, and E to boost the family’s immune system. 

Remember, it’s not just about reacting to the flu; it’s about proactively creating a space that actively repels it.  For home and travel additions that will help you fight against the flu, other viruses, allergens, and bacteria you can dive deeper into understanding the functionality and efficacy of UV Care products by exploring their official YouTube Channel and website.

Manila, Philippines, December 11, 2023 – Global technology brand HONOR is leading the way in foldable innovation and eye comfort technology, achieving an estimated 200% growth in overseas markets this year. HONOR focused on human-centric innovations; a part of the enlightening discussion titled “A New Intelligent World: What’s Next for Smart Devices” at the Fortune Global Forum 2023 in Abu Dhabi.



“We believe human-centric innovations will enable new possibilities for the next generation of smart devices. Foldables are on the cusp of going mainstream, on-device AI is paving the way for a transformative era, and human-centric technologies, such as eye comfort display technology, are enhancing human-device interaction experiences. From our perspective, this is what’s next for smart devices,” said Dr. Ray Guo, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of HONOR Device Co. Ltd.



One million Foldable Phones Milestone


According to the World Health Organizations (WHO), at least 2.2 billion people have a vision impairment or blindness globally, of whom at least 1 billion have a vision impairment that could have been prevented or has yet to be addressed. This pain point became HONOR’s top priority by integrating eye comfort display technology, investing more than $140 million on display technology R&D, and developing over 500 display-related patents.



In the past, some core user pain points of foldables were not yet solved – namely portability, durability, and battery life. Now, devices like the HONOR Magic V2 are as thin and light as a regular flagship smartphone, while delivering all the benefits of an immersive foldable screen. The HONOR Magic V2 is tested to withstand at least 400,000 folds, representing great durability, and includes silicon-carbon battery technology for all-day battery life.


After solving these consumer pain points, HONOR has recently hit a significant milestone in manufacturing 1 million foldables from its factory. Its Magic V2 is currently the No.1 best-selling foldable in China market, capturing 25% share of the expanding foldable market as a single model, according to industry analysis firm Omdia.



The growing scale of production demonstrates how HONOR is driving the industry’s supply chain forwards – and that the industry is maturing. Surpassing this milestone of 1 million units shows that the supply chain is reaching a stage of mass production where the manufacturing process is more automated and efficient.



Unleashing the Potential of On-device AI



Moreover, AI was undoubtedly one of the most highly anticipated topics of discussion. HONOR has invested in AI for years, having debuted platform-level AI to enhance the smartphone user experience with intention-based AI services. During the Qualcomm Snapdragon Summit in October, HONOR unveiled that its upcoming HONOR Magic6 smartphone will feature On-device LLM powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform. HONOR believes in a hybrid AI model, utilizing on-device AI for personalized content and services while ensuring user privacy with data staying on the device.



For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/. 

MANILA – Foundever™, a global leader in the customer experience (CX) industry, has been recognized for its commitment to diversity and sustainability at the Asia CEO Awards 2023, winning the Circle of Excellence award for Diversity Company of the Year and the Circle of Excellence award for Sustainability Company of the Year.


Organized by the Asia CEO Forum, the Asia CEO Awards is the most coveted business honors in the Philippines and is also widely recognized as the largest event of its kind in Southeast Asia. It recognizes outstanding leadership achievements in the business industry.


Foundever two wins serve as a testament to its dedication to making a positive impact on the environment and promoting inclusivity within its workforce.


The Diversity Company of the Year is awarded to organizations that have exemplified a proactive commitment to embracing and honoring the diversity of the human experience. Foundever received recognition for the various efforts and initiatives they have in place to ensure a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees including diversity training programs, inclusive healthcare coverage, and a DEI committee to ensure proper representation and visibility within the organization.


The Sustainability Company of the Year recognizes organizations that achieved significant environmental progress and exhibited leadership and commitment to sustainability. Foundever was acknowledged for their eco-friendly practices, such as reducing their carbon footprint, implementing recycling programs, and investing in renewable energy resources.


Foundever has also engaged in activities to support local communities and environmental preservation efforts. Just last July, the company had a tree planting activity with 160 of its associates from Foundever in Tarlac as part of their rehabilitation project called “Foundever Forest.”


Present at the awarding ceremony was the Vice President of HR, Marketing and Communications for Philippines and China at Foundever, Pamela Donato. “These awards are a reflection of our tireless commitment to making a positive impact on our employees and the world around us,” Donato said.


“We firmly believe that embracing diversity and sustainability goes beyond strategic advantage in today’s business landscape. It embodies our passion and dedication to be a force for good and proactively instigate the change we want to see in the world.”


Aside from receiving recognition for diversity and sustainability, Foundever also sponsored the Young Leader of the Year award that recognizes young leaders who made incredible strides to advance the nation’s economy or social standing on the global stage. This year, the award was given to Walther Buenavista, President and CEO of Shawarma Shack.


“We are honored to take part in this celebration of exceptional young leaders,” said Ravi Iyengar, Asia Pacific Chief Operating Officer at Foundever. “We believe in the potential of emerging talents and their ability to shape the future. With this award, we aim to encourage and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.”


Foundever has a long-standing commitment to talent development and has been a driving force in nurturing talent and leadership skills within the organization. Foundever believes that supporting initiatives such as the Young Leader of the Year award is an extension of their dedication to leadership excellence.


The Circle of Excellence awards for Diversity Company of the Year and Sustainability Company of the Year as well as the sponsorship of the Young Leader of the Year award underscores their dedication to promoting sustainability, diversity, and leadership excellence. Moreover, Foundever aspired to motivate fellow industry members and the broader business community to adopt and champion these principles.

Garbage collectors received Noche Buena packages from SM City Marilao.

With just a few weeks left before Christmas, SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan pay tribute to the hardworking workers in the community as the malls spread holiday cheers through gift-giving activities. 

Through its charity arm, SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI), SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag and SM Center Pulilan distributed a total of 990 Noche Buena packages to selected areas in the province. Celebrating the true meaning of Christmas, the gift-giving brought smiles and cheers to chosen beneficiaries while promoting SM’s culture of volunteerism, that aims to bring happiness and spread social good to the communities in Bulacan.

Recognizing the unwavering sacrifice every worker makes to provide for their family’s needs while being consistent role models in the community, SM Bulacan malls bring smiles through Noche Buena packages shared with street vendors, garbage collectors, street sweepers, junk collectors, TODA members, construction workers, and delivery riders, among others.

Out of the 990 Noche Buena packages distributed in Bulacan, a total of 400 packs were given to beneficiaries in Barangay Lias and Loma De Gato in Marilao; 400 in Barangay Pagala and Pinagbarilan in Baliwag; and 190 to selected areas in Pulilan.

The remarkable event was attended by 397 college scholars-graduates and their respective families, the esteemed partners, and SM Foundation heads. Out of 397 scholars, 135 graduated with Latin honors, while 26 were recognized as academic distinction awardees.

Notable scholars from Bulacan include graduates from Bulacan State University, namely Christian Paolo Pascual, BS in Mathematics, and Rg Emplamado, BS in Accountancy, both of which are Summa Cum Laude, followed by Jenny Rose Zamora, BSEd Major in English, Magna Cum Laude, and Claricel Joy Peralta, BS in Accounting Technology, Cum Laude. Also from BSU were David Meinard Reynoso, BS in Information Technology; Jasper Garcia, BS in Electrical Engineering; and Piolo Batin, BS in Civil Engineering. Meanwhile, scholar-graduates from Baliuag University include Art Joseph Jumaquio, BS in Mechanical Engineering, and Lyndon Tadeo, BS in Accountancy.

 

In her address, SM Foundation’s Executive Director for Education Programs, Carmen Linda Atayde, emphasized the transformative power of education: “Behind these impressive statistics lie stories of triumph over challenges, stories of dreams pursued against all odds. These scholars, hailing from humble backgrounds, have shown that with opportunity and hard work, one can break the intergenerational cycle of poverty.”

Atayde also recognized the support of mentors, educators, and the Sy family, noting how their efforts have paved the way for success, not only for today’s graduates but also for the communities they represent.

Echoing the vision of the SM group’s founder, Tatang Henry Sy Sr., SMFI Executive Director Debbie Sy also emphasized the importance of education as a tool for social mobility and poverty alleviation.

“As we stand here today, let us remember the vision of Tatang, who believed deeply in the power of education to break the shackles of poverty,” she said.

Addressing the scholars, Sy reminded the SM scholars of their role as catalysts for change in their communities: “You are the living proof of the transformative power of education. The SM Foundation Scholarship Program’s goal is not just academic success but to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty.”

“Now, armed with knowledge, be agents of social good in your communities. Your journey doesn’t end here; it’s a new beginning, and we can’t wait to witness the positive impact you’ll create,” she capped.

The SM Foundation’s Scholarship Program, established in 1993, has provided financial and holistic support to over 8,000 college and technical-vocational scholars, empowering them to pursue their academic aspirations and contribute to the betterment of their families.

This cements the SM group’s commitment to social good in the last 40 years, ensuring that deserving students, especially from low-income communities, have access to quality education and the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty.

Sun Life Philippines’ recent thanksgiving concert, dubbed Sama-sama sa Pasasalamat, may have been top-billed by celebrities Piolo Pascual, Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli, and Donny Pangilinan, but they weren’t the only ones who shined during that evening, as the company also put the spotlight on a special group of brand ambassadors: its very own business owner clients.

During the event, held recently at the World Trade Center Tent, concert attendees got to enjoy delectable treats from various food concessionaires owned by Sun Life clients, including Happy Kopi, Grain Ola, Hungry Anj, Stip’s Chips, Zachy’s Sweetreats, Wilmar’s Taho Factory, Spice Jar Co., Plant Patisserie PH, Sushitopia, Yeppeun Jei K-Goodies, Takojammy, That’s Diner, Delsey Juices, Koomi, Shepherds Deli, and Heavenly Desserts.

“We’re always eager to find new ways of engaging with our business owner clients, from online learning sessions to on-ground events. This time, we took it a notch higher by providing them an opportunity to promote their products in our thanksgiving concert,” said Sun Life Client Segment Marketing Head Cary Casipit.

Sun Life has been actively serving business owner clients over the years with its Sun Future Proof, a program designed with a business owner’s journey in mind, bringing together financial education and financial solutions to help them achieve both business and personal financial goals.

The company also offers the Business Owner Insurance Packages, which are product bundles designed to address the financial needs of entrepreneurs both for their business and personal goals. The options include BIP Emergency Fund + Lifetime Protection, BIP Health Protection, BIP Education Fund, BIP Key Employee Protection, BIP Partner/Shareholder Protection, BIP Retirement Fund, and BIP Estate Protection.

“As we close the year, we wish to thank our business owner clients for trusting Sun Life to be their Partner for Life,” Casipit said. “We look forward to our continued collaboration with them as they strive to make their businesses grow bigger and shine brighter.”

To know more about Sun Life’s Sun Future Proof program, please visit https://sunlife.co/futureproofbusiness.